Guests of the BEST WESTERN PLUS Emerald Beach Resort in St. Thomas are mainly corporate clientele and couples. Families typically stay at the hotel pre- or post- trip to Tortola, which is just one hour away by ferry. They might also decide to stay here before trekking over to St. John.

If your family is considering a visit to either one of those islands, BEST WESTERN PLUS Emerald Beach Resort is a perfectly good option, with modern guestrooms, a restaurant, outdoor pool and pretty beach, where water sports rentals are available. If you’re looking for a bona fide beach resort where you and the kids can dig your toes in the sand and relax for a weeklong vacation, this probably isn’t the place for you.

For more information, visit BEST WESTERN Hotels.

The hotel has a total of 90 guestrooms; 45 have one king bed and the other 45 offer two doubles. All rooms offer balconies or patios, along with mini-fridges and coffeemakers. Most bathrooms have walk-in showers stalls only, so if a bathtub is important for your family, inquire when booking.

While rooms usually accommodate a maximum of four guests, rollaway beds and cribs may be rented for $25 nightly, and connecting rooms are available for large groups.

Note: The hotel doesn't have any elevators, so if getting up the stairs may be an issue for your group, inquire about this at the time of booking to ensure a first-floor unit.

Pool
Our favorite feature at the hotel is its pool, which features a waterfall and multi-colored, changing lights at night. The pool is open all day; there is no lifeguard on duty.

Beach and Water Sports
The hotel is situated on the beach, where guests enjoy lounge chairs courtesy of the hotel. Families can also enjoy water sports on the beach via an outside vendor. Offerings include stand-up paddleboarding and snorkeling. Note that the beach is public, as are all beaches in the Virgin Islands.

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Breakfast (7 to 10:30), lunch (11:30 to 2:30) and dinner (6 to 10) are served at Caribbean Fusion Restaurant, where menu options include pizzas, burgers, sandwiches, salads and fish, steak and chicken entrees. The hotel doesn't have a separate kids' menu, but because the sandwiches are so big, you can easily order one and let the kids split it.

Caribbean Buffet
A popular tradition throughout the U.S. Virgin Islands, the hotel hosts a Caribbean Buffett on Monday nights, complete with live steel pan music. There is a fee per person for the buffet.

Beach Bar
The hotel operates a beach bar with light backs and refreshing drinks to enjoy while you relax.

All About the Extras
Wi-Fi
The hotel offers free Wi-Fi.

Fitness Center
The hotel has a small fitness center that operates 24 hours with key card access.

Check-In/Check-Out
Check-in is at 3 p.m. and check-out is at noon.

The Art of Smart Timing
The hotel is consistently busy throughout the year, especially since it caters to corporate clientele. Like most hotels and resorts in the U.S. Virgin Islands, however, it sees the most guests in the winter months.

Getting There
The only airport in St. Thomas, Cyril E. King Airport is just down the road from the hotel. In fact, you can see the runway from the hotel. You can easily get a cab to the hotel, but know you'll be charged per person.

Getting Around
If you'd like to explore St. Thomas, your best bet is to call a taxi. If you've rented a car, plenty of free parking is available at the hotel.

For Mom and Dad
There aren't any restaurants immediately outside of the hotel, but the hotel's bar offers all your favorite mixed drinks.